Knowing your risk of heart disease before you have any symptoms is critical. Think of the coronary calcium score screening as a mammogram for your heart: It's a preventive measure that can save your life.
What is a coronary calcium score screening?
A coronary calcium score screening is a five-minute scan that can help you better understand your risks before heart disease takes you by surprise.
A screening, available to both men and women, is a simple thing you can do once a year to identify potentially life-threatening disease.
Coronary calcium score screening uses a special type of imaging technology called a CT scan to take a close look at your arteries and blood vessels. This heart scan is not invasive and uses a very low dose of radiation.
The images will spot calcium buildup that can lead to heart attacks. Your calcium score is based on how much calcium you have; the higher your score, the greater your risk.
After your screening, the team sends the results and recommendations to your doctor. People with a higher score usually talk to their doctor about things they can do to lower their risk.
Who should be screened?
Any male over the age of 45 and any female over the age of 55 is appropriate for a calcium score test. If you are younger, but have any of the following heart disease risk factors, this test is also recommended:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Family history of heart disease
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Tobacco use
Your test results will help your doctor determine the right follow-up care for your individual needs.
Contact your primary care provider and ask them to place an order for a calcium score test by calling 860.972.2507 or faxing 860.696.3245. The calcium Score test is $99 and paid for directly out-of-pocket. A physician referral is required.
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